An experimental apparatus for measurement of pressure drop, void fraction, and non-boiling two-phase heat transfer and flow visualization in pipes for all inclinations

Scope and Method of Study. This study has been conducted in order to present the design, construction, and validation of a state-of-the-art experimental apparatus for the purposes of measurement of pressure drop, void fraction, and non-boiling two-phase heat transfer and flow visualization in pipes with inclination angles ranging between positive and negative ninety degrees. Methods of validation for each intended capability of the experimental apparatus have included comparison of the data obtained with established correlations. In addition, void fraction measurements have been compared against experimental data obtained from four independent sources. In the cases of single-phase heat transfer and two-phase non-boiling heat transfer, direct comparisons have been made between data obtained with the newly completed experimental apparatus and data previously collected at the Oklahoma State University heat transfer laboratory. Examples of the flow visualization capabilities as well as methodology have been presented.;Findings and Conclusions. Validations of the experimental apparatus for each of the intended modes of data collection including pressure drop, void fraction, and non-boiling two-phase heat transfer have proved highly satisfactory. In addition flow visualization was conducted using the experimental apparatus with excellent results. Having validated the functionality of this experimental apparatus, it is intended that it be utilized to further test correlations that have been developed for two-phase non-boiling heat transfer in pipes and void fraction. It is intended that the experimental apparatus be utilized to continue to develop these equations so that they are applicable for any angle of inclination between positive and negative ninety degrees. It is also intended that the device be used for generating flow maps for inclinations between positive and negative ninety degrees. The device should be considered both a highly capable and versatile addition to the Oklahoma State University heat transfer laboratory.